A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mykonos vs. Sao Paulo for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mykonos and Sao Paulo. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a postcard perfect, glamourous, and party-oriented Greek island. Many visitors also come to Mykonos because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Mykonos travel costs.

Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a cultural, dynamic, and vibrant city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Sao Paulo travel costs.

Mykonos and Sao Paulo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

Both Sao Paulo and Mykonos have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Mykonos is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Sao Paulo is known for its museums and attractions and big city activities. Mykonos is more touristy than Sao Paulo and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Sao Paulo is popular for its large size, vibrant neighborhoods, and world-class nightlife scene.

How is Mykonos different from Sao Paulo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sao Paulo and Mykonos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Sao Paulo are among the most recognizable in the world. While many visitors overlook Sao Paulo for other destinations in Brazil, those that do visit will be rewarded with a large number of museums and sights. It's the largest city in South America, and there's plenty to do. Highlights include Museu de Arte, Museu de Arte, Museu de Arte Contemporânea, and the cathedral

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.


Is the Food Better in Mykonos or Sao Paulo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Mykonos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Sao Paulo makes for a great culinary experience. The city offers a huge mix of fine dining restaurants, street food vendors, family-friendly restaurants, and large local markets. The cuisine has many influences such as the Portuguese, West Africa, and even the Middle East. Popular dishes include the street food coxinha, feijoada (black bean and beef stew), and cachooro-quente (local hot dogs).

Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Both Mykonos and Sao Paulo are world-class when it comes to partying.

The nightlife in Mykonos is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

Sao Paulo is a world class party destination. As the economic hub for Brazil, you'll find tons of bars, clubs, and venues throughout the city. The best neighborhood for a party is Vila Madalena, which is filled with restaurants and bars. For live music and food trucks, check out Rua Augusta. There are also many different neighborhoods in this megacity, and many have a lively energy and plenty to do at night. Every night you should be able to find something different to do.

Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Sao Paulo is not a resort destination.

Mykonos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Sao Paulo is not a resort destination.


Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Mykonos is a great Greek island for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Sao Paulo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Mykonos to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Sao Paulo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Mykonos is a great Greek island for the beach. However, Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Mykonos. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Sao Paulo is not a beach destination.

Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Mykonos is revered around the world. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets. It's a scenic area that has long been popular for its beautiful setting.

Sao Paulo does not have a historic old town.


Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Mykonos is mediocre for hiking. However, Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

While not known for its hiking, Mykonos has a few options. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Sao Paulo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Both Mykonos and Sao Paulo are world-class shopping destinations.

The abundance of shops in Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Many people travel to Sao Paulo specifically to go shopping. The shopping opportunities are diverse, from megamalls to local markets, and international boutiques. There are many great neighborhoods for shopping, like Jardins, where you'll find high end stores. The main shopping street is Rua Oscar Freire. Downtown Sao Paulo has a mix of retail stores and market stalls that sell everything from cheap fashion to inexpensive odds and ins.

Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo More Beautiful?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Mykonos because of it's amazing beauty. With its stunning blue waters and postcard perfect towns, this island is filled with beauty.

Sao Paulo is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for Families?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

Sao Paulo is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy a visit to the zoo or one of the kid-friendly museums around town. There are also a number of parks, some kid-friendly restaurants, and even an amusement park.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Mykonos is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Mykonos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Sao Paulo is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with culture and you'll find many great activities that will make for an exciting couples trip. There are parks and museums, bars and restaurants, and theaters where you can see a show. Many couples enjoy a visit to the Botanical Garden of Sao Paulo or a stroll through Ibirapuera Park. You can watch the sunset with a view of the city from one of the many rooftop bars and then enjoy some samba dancing on the town.

Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a good destination for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Sao Paulo. While it's overlooked by many travelers, backpackers who linger for awhile will enjoy the city's authenticity and cultural scene. There are also a number of hostels around town.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.


Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for Students?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is a good destination for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with students.

Sao Paulo is a good city to visit for students. The city is large with a diverse population and plenty to offer students. There are good educational institutions and a great international vibe as well.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Sao Paulo is an unbeatable place for its public transit. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Visitors in Sao Paulo can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. It's a huge city, so you'll likely make use of the metro during your trip. There are six lines to the metro system and they provide convenient access to many of the city's top attractions. The city also has many bus routes as well.

Mykonos has some public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Is Mykonos or Sao Paulo a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Sao Paulo

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Sao Paulo is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its walkability.

Mykonos is a very easy Greek island to get around on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

Sao Paulo is very walkable. It's a megacity that has a wide range of neighborhoods. The city center is generally very walkable, but because of its size, you'll want to have an itinerary planned out for each day.


For even more information, also check out Is Mykonos Worth Visiting? and Is Sao Paulo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sao Paulo or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mykonos and Sao Paulo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mykonos than in Sao Paulo. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Sao Paulo.

Families should spend more time in Mykonos than Sao Paulo. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Mykonos, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Mykonos than Sao Paulo. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mykonos that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sao Paulo than Mykonos if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Sao Paulo.


  • How many days in Mykonos or Sao Paulo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Sao Paulo 2-3

One day in Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint Greek island of Mykonos. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Because Sao Paulo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the glamourous destination of Mykonos. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Because Sao Paulo is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Sao Paulo has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the opulent Greek island of Mykonos. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this Greek island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this Greek island has to offer.

Sao Paulo is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

Mykonos is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sao Paulo. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Sao Paulo. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours from Manaus, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Brazil.


Which place is cheaper, Sao Paulo or Mykonos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Mykonos Prices
    Greece Prices
    Sao Paulo Prices
    Brazil Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mykonos 272
    Sao Paulo 51

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €272, while the average daily cost in Sao Paulo is €51. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mykonos and Sao Paulo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Sao Paulo 24
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Sao Paulo 48
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Sao Paulo

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Sao Paulo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mykonos


Hotels in Sao Paulo


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Mykonos Hotel Prices and Sao Paulo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Sao Paulo 4.90
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • From Helicopter Transfer to Athens or Greek Island: $2,955
  • Private Catamaran Cruise w/ Food, Drinks & Transfer: $880
  • ❖ Private Island Tour with Transfers and Greek Meal: $235
  • Private Transfer: From Scorpios to your hotel with mini bus: $223
  • Private Transfer: From Scorpios to your Villa with mini bus: $211
  • Private Transfer: Mykonos Town to your Villa with mini bus: $211
  • Private Transfer:From your hotel to Windmills with mini bus: $188
  • Private Transfer: Mykonos Windmills to your hotel-mini bus: $188
  • Private Transfer: Mykonos Windmills to Airport with mini bus: $188
  • Private Transfer: Mykonos Town to Airport with mini bus: $185
  • Private Transfer: Airport to Mykonos Old Port with mini bus: $164
  • Catamaran Cruise with Lunch, Drinks and Transfer: $164

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Sao Paulo

Also for Sao Paulo, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer from Rio de Janeiro Airport (GIG) (SDU): $16
  • Sao Paulo Airport (GRU) Private Transfer to Sao Paulo City/Hotels: $27
  • Transfer CGH Airport Congonhas <> Sao Paulo city / Hotel: $38
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Congonhas Airport to São Paulo Hotels: $39
  • Private Departure Transfer: São Paulo Hotels to Congonhas Airport: $39
  • Receptive and Transfer Airports, Cities and Coast: $42
  • Private Arrival Transfer: Guarulhos International Airport to São Paulo Hotels: $47
  • Transfer GRU airport Guarulhos <> Sao Paulo / Hotel / CGH airport: $65
  • Try find your better than us! Airport transfer service in Sao Paulo APT-HTL(GRU): $67
  • Transfer (Taxi) airport to Sao Paulo: $77
  • Sao Paulo Guarulhos Airport (GRU) to Sao Paulo Private Transfer: $79
  • Private Transfer from Guarulhos to Santos: $80

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

Prices for flights to both Sao Paulo and Mykonos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mykonos 83
    Sao Paulo 21
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Mykonos.

  • Food Tour: Aperitivo In Mykonos Town: $76
  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $76
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $101
  • Sunset Sail Cruise to Rhenia, Beach Hopping, Dinner: $111
  • Group Cooking Class at the Home of a Local Family: $117
  • Greek Cooking Class with Meal and Wine: $141
  • Hands-On Cooking Class with a Professional Chef: $141
  • Mykonos Cooking Class Experience for Cruise Travelers: $141
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $176

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Sao Paulo

For Sao Paulo, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Make 9 Brazilian Faves in a 4-Hour Cooking Workshop in Sao Paulo: $85
  • Authentic Brazilian Cooking Experience in SP: Feijoada & Moqueca: $189

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Sao Paulo 3.31

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Mykonos are as follows:

  • 2 Hours walking tour in Mykonos Town: $141
  • Captivating Love Tour Around Mykonos: $389
  • Cruise to Rhenia Island with Stop at Ancient Delos: $117
  • Delos Synagogue: Jewish Heritage Private Tour from Mykonos: $516
  • Explore Mykonos Island with a 650cc ATV / QUAD Tour: $152
  • Family Walking Tour - Private Group up to 10: $410
  • Fascinating Beauties of Mykonos - Walking Tour: $562
  • Feel like a local - Walking Tour in Mykonos Town 2hours: $41
  • From Mykonos Cruise Port: Old Town Visit and Beach Getaway: $72
  • From Mykonos Port: Delos Guided Tour: $99
  • From Mykonos Town: Guided Sightseeing Tour with Windmills: $88
  • From Ancient Delos Tour: $70

Tours and Activities in Sao Paulo

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Sao Paulo.

  • Sao Paulo Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Downtown-Center History Walking Tour - in English: $31
  • São Paulo: 2 Hour Immersion Waling Tour in Paulista Avenue: $34
  • São Paulo Must-see Attractions Walking Tour with a Guide: $48
  • Boat Trip Billings Dam and Experience Bororé Island: $50
  • São Paulo: 2 Hours - Liberdade "Street Food" Tour - In English: $55
  • Sao Paulo, Pinheiros - Food & Graffiti Tour - In English: $65
  • São Paulo Highlights Walking Tour with a Guide: $66
  • City Tour Meet São Paulo Half-Day: $68
  • Sao Paulo Culture Walking Tour: $69
  • Shared tour of the tourist attractions of São Paulo: $77
  • São Paulo’s Full Day City Tour: Main City Sights in 7 Hours – (Shared Group): $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Sao Paulo 2.88

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

Also in Mykonos, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Mykonos Town & Brewery:2-Hour Walking Tour with Beer Tasting: $76
  • Mykonos Bar Crawl with a Local: $76
  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $80
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $88
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $164

Sample the Local Flavors in Sao Paulo

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Sao Paulo:

  • Fine wine tastings in São Roque - Tour with local guides: $192


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Sao Paulo, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Sao Paulo much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Mykonos is in Europe and Sao Paulo is in South America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Sao Paulo would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Sao Paulo and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mykonos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mykonos than you might in Sao Paulo.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mykonos Expensive? and Is Sao Paulo Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Sao Paulo?

Sao Paulo has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Mykonos. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Sao Paulo, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.